Beyond Doctors And Nurses: 7 Unusual Health Careers To Consider
If you’re interested in unusual health careers, you might be surprised to learn just how many intriguing opportunities exist beyond the conventional paths of doctors and nurses. The healthcare field is incredibly diverse, encompassing a variety of roles that cater to different interests and skill sets. These unusual health careers often combine elements of science, technology, and artistry, making them ideal for those who want to make a significant impact on patient care while exploring unique aspects of health and wellness.
In this article, we will explore seven lesser-known health careers that you might not have considered. From the high-tech world of healthcare simulation technicians to the creative realm of medical illustrators, each role plays a vital part in the healthcare ecosystem. We’ll examine the responsibilities, working environments, educational requirements, and earning potential associated with these careers. So, if you’re ready to broaden your horizons and discover what lies beyond the traditional roles in healthcare, let’s dive in!
1. Perfusionist
Perfusionists assist during cardiovascular surgeries by managing perfusion equipment and regulating body temperature and blood gas levels.
- Salary Range: $100,000 – $200,000
- Environment: Hospitals, specifically surgical rooms
- Work-Life Balance: 40-hour work weeks with alternating night and day shifts
- Education Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in anatomy, biology, or math; certification from the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion.
2. Genetic Counselor
Genetic counselors help individuals understand their risk of inherited conditions and advise healthcare professionals for better patient care. They can specialize in areas such as oncology or pediatrics.
- Salary Range: $89,540 – $116,690
- Environment: Private labs, universities, hospitals, private practice
- Work-Life Balance: 40-hour week with mostly free weekends
- Education Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in biology or social science; Master of Science in genetic counseling.
3. Medical Illustrator
Medical illustrators create detailed visual representations of medical concepts for educational materials, apps, and textbooks. There are fewer than 2,000 professionally trained medical illustrators globally.
- Salary Range: $83,500 – $170,000
- Environment: Self-employed, hospitals, research institutions, advertising agencies
- Work-Life Balance: 40-hour week
- Education Requirements: Master’s degree in medical illustration; certification from the Board of Certification of Medical Illustrators.
4. Cytotechnologist
Cytotechnologists examine cells under microscopes to detect early signs of cancer and other diseases.
- Salary Range: $106,674 – $161,332
- Environment: Hospital labs, universities, research institutions
- Work-Life Balance: 40-hour week
- Education Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in biology or a related field; Master’s degree in cytotechnology.
5. Healthcare Simulation Technician
These professionals create and manage realistic simulated medical scenarios for healthcare students and practitioners to practice their skills safely.
- Salary Range: $35,000 – $75,000
- Environment: Hospital labs, medical schools, nursing programs, research institutions
- Work-Life Balance: 40-hour week
- Education Requirements: Background in healthcare, IT, or audiovisual production; CHSOS certification (Certified Healthcare Simulation Operations Specialist).
6. Orthotist
Orthotists design and fit braces and supportive devices to help individuals with physical limitations improve their mobility.
- Salary Range: $65,000 – $78,100
- Environment: Hospitals, rehabilitation centers, private practice
- Work-Life Balance: 40-hour week
- Education Requirements: Master’s degree and a one-year residency.
7. Health Informatician
Health informaticians manage and analyze medical data to enhance patient care and improve hospital operations.
- Salary Range: $37,657 – $129,837
- Environment: Hospitals, private practices, nursing homes
- Work-Life Balance: 40-hour week
- Education Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in health informatics
Related: How To Approach Your First Career Mentor
Final Thoughts on Unusual Health Careers To Consider
There you have it— seven fascinating unusual health careers that often fly unnoticed. Many of these fields are growing and guarantee solid salaries over the next few decades. So, if you’re passionate about health and science but looking for something different, why not dig deeper into one of these options?
Let us know in the comments below which career option has excited you most.
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